Dennis's Violin & Viola Studio

Premier String Instruction in Ellicott City

Bringing over 20 years of San Francisco Bay Area teaching excellence to Howard County. Personalized violin and viola lessons for all levels—from complete beginners building solid fundamentals to advanced students preparing for competitive auditions.

🍂 Fall 2026 Enrollment Now Open

Limited Studio Openings & Welcome Study Packages

Weekly instructional slots are now open for the Fall 2026 Term. A limited number of Welcome Enrollment Packages are available for families registering this month.

All Levels & Ages: Tailored violin and viola instruction balancing technique, musicality, and joy.
Orchestra & Audition Prep: Specialized coaching for HCPSS school orchestras, GT ensembles, and regional youth symphonies.
Flexible Scheduling: Dedicated recurring weekly slots or flexible drop-in options to accommodate busy academic calendars.

Note: Priority scheduling and introductory packages are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis to maintain dedicated, personalized attention for every student.

Reserve Your Spot Today

Studio capacity is strictly limited to ensure individual attention.

Book Your Lesson

Links in to contact page.

Opening May 1 in Ellicott City!

Welcome! I am Dennis, and I am thrilled to bring over 20 years of premier music education from California’s Silicon Valley to our new community here in Howard County.

Having taught in one of the most competitive musical landscapes in the country, I offer a professional and nurturing environment designed for your success—whether you are a beginner or an advanced player preparing for elite auditions.

Faculty Experience

I bring over 20 years of expertise from the top music institutions in California's San Francisco Bay Area. Before opening my Maryland studio, I served as a premier instructor at several leading California schools, including:

Community School of Music & Arts (CSMA), Mountain View — Former Violin & Viola Faculty at the region's premier center for arts and music education.
Opus 1 Music Studio (Mountain View & Palo Alto) — Former Violin Faculty at a top-ranked studio recognized for high technical standards.
Other Select California Music Schools — Provided high-caliber studio instruction.

With this elite background, I have a proven track record of helping students of all ages and levels achieve their highest musical goals.

My Teaching Philosophy

I believe that learning the violin and viola should be an enjoyable and deeply fulfilling experience. My goal is to help you become a well-rounded, expressive musician by focusing on three core pillars:

Personalized Instruction: Every student is unique. I tailor my teaching methods to fit your individual needs, learning style, and goals—whether you are picking up the instrument for the first time or preparing for an advanced audition.
Technique & Musicality: A strong technical foundation is the key to musical freedom. We will work together to build solid mechanics while developing your unique expression and tone.

Thank you for considering Dennis's Violin & Viola Studio. I am excited to guide you on your musical journey and look forward to working with you soon!

My Teaching Specialties

I am dedicated to helping my students become accomplished, expressive, and confident performers. To achieve this, I offer specialized instruction in the following areas:

Comprehensive Pedagogy (Suzuki & Traditional): Suzuki Method with traditional methods focused on music theory and sight-reading to create a well-rounded education.
All Ages & Skill Levels: From building perfect habits for beginners to refining the nuance and dynamic expression of advanced classical players.
ABRSM Exam Preparation: Specialized guidance to help students successfully prepare for and excel in the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music exams.
School Orchestra & Audition Prep: Extensive experience preparing students for competitive school orchestra seating and auditions, focusing on repertoire selection, technique, and ensemble skills.
Flexible Formats: Offering premium in-person lessons at my Ellicott City home studio, as well as highly effective Online Lessons for ultimate convenience.